Guard

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a guard ( 1 ) having a guard element ( 2 ) on the basis of rigid plastic or metal, which guard element has a concave rear face ( 2   b ) that is curved transversely to a longitudinal axis (L 1 ) of the guard ( 1 ) and partially encloses an inner space for accommodating the limb of a user, and a convex front face ( 2   a ). The guard composes at least one closing device ( 34 ) for removably fastening the guard element to a limb of the user while allowing to adjust the size of the guard element.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to the field of guards for limbs, in particular shin guards or forearm guards, in particular for sporting activities in the field of ski sport (in particular in ski racing, or downhill, giant slalom and slalom), in inline skating, in hockey, American football, or in other types of sport in which limbs have to be protected.

PRIOR ART

On limb guards, fastening elements are typically provided for fastening the guard to the limb of the user. As described for example in WO 2014/060171 A1 for a shin guard, these fastening elements are usually conventional hook-and-loop fastener systems, such as is also known from the field of orthopedic arm and leg splints. These systems allow the user to fasten the guard with differing tightness as desired depending on the width of the limb. It is disadvantageous here that in order to achieve a widening or tightening, the hook-and-loop mechanism in each case has to be completely released, re-applied and re-fixed to correspond to the desired degree of fastening. As a result of the removal of the entire guard, the latter has to be re-positioned on the respective limb, which requires two hands and is time-consuming.

Latching clasps are known for example in the case of motorcycle shoes, as disclosed in WO 2012/111033 A1, or else in the case of helmets or snowboard bindings. U.S. Pat. No. 5,370,133 discloses the use of latching clasps in the case of an orthopedic leg splint.

Documents such as, for example, US 2002/020000, US 2015/033433, U.S. Pat. No. 9,551,405 or FR 3011443 disclose guards which can be fastened with bands to corresponding body parts. If any longitudinal adjustment is provided, said adjustment thus takes place by way of a longitudinal setting of the respective band.

US 2013/267878 discloses a leg prosthesis for the lower leg, without a guard.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Correspondingly, the problem addressed by the present invention is that of providing an improved limb guard. In particular, a gradual, even subsequent setting of the degree of fastening of the guard to the limb is in this case intended to be achieved, without needing to re-position the guard. At the same time, it is intended for one-handed handling, in particular one-handed setting or adjustment of the wearing width, to be made possible. The aforementioned problem is solved by a limb guard (referred to subsequently as “guard”) having a guard element which is formed on the basis of a hard plastic or metal. Preferred materials are composite or fiber composite materials or thermoplastics, for example polyamide (PA), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE). The guard element comprises a concave rear side, which is formed in a curved manner transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of the limb guard and partially encloses an interior space for accommodating the limb of a user, for example the shin region or forearm region, and a convex front side. The guard element is in this case configured in the form of a surface which is curved substantially only in one direction, on the concave rear side of which the limb of the user comes to lie and the convex front side of which performs the protective function.

The guard according to the invention comprises at least one closing apparatus for fastening the guard element to the limb of the user in a releasable and size-adjustable manner. The closing apparatus is configured for the selective continuous or stepwise setting of a wearing width of the guard element in a circumferential direction on a limb of the user. Here, wearing width is understood to mean substantially the length of the circumference of the guard during use, that is to say in a state fastened to the limb of the user, measured in the circumferential direction substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the guard.

The guard according to the invention is preferably a shin guard or a forearm guard.

It is the core of the invention that the closing apparatus comprises a latching closure, a ratchet closure or a clamping closure, or that the closing apparatus is a latching closure, a ratchet closure or a clamping closure.

In this case, the guard element comprises a first side edge and a second side edge which, as seen in relation to the interior space, lies opposite the first side edge, wherein the first side edge preferably forms the inner edge, which faces toward the opposite second limb of the user, and the second side edge preferably forms the outer edge. The set wearing width thus also influences the distance of the first side edge of the guard element from the second side edge of the guard element, said distance being measured transversely across the interior space.

In this case, the transition region between the inner edge and the upper edge, and also the transition region between the outer edge and the upper edge, are preferably of fundamentally arcuate configuration, wherein the circular arc between the inner edge and the upper edge describes a greater radius than the circular arc between the outer edge and the upper edge.

Preferably, at least one tongue is fastened with a first end, directly or indirectly, in the region of the second side edge of the guard element, and at least one clasp is fastened, directly or indirectly, in the region of the first side edge of the guard element, or vice versa. The tongue can be fastened to the inner edge and the clasp can be fastened to the outer edge, which simplifies the handling since better access from the outside is afforded for releasing the closure. Conversely, however, it is also possible for the tongue to be fastened to the outer edge and for the clasp to be fastened to the inner edge, as a result of which the situation is avoided whereby, when the closing apparatus is closed, the protruding proportion of the tongue projects outward and, for example in ski racing, flutters in the wind.

Advantageously, the tongue for setting the wearing width can be fastened to the clasp in a releasable manner at different positions along a longitudinal axis of the tongue, which extends substantially in the circumferential direction.

According to a preferred embodiment, the clasp comprises a through-opening for accommodating or guiding the tongue. To define the wearing width of the guard on the limb of the user, the free end of the tongue is therefore pulled through this through-opening until the desired wearing width is reached. In a preferred embodiment, the clasp is then actively actuated, for example in the case of a clamping clasp by tilting a clamping lever about an axis of rotation, which is arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guard. As an alternative, the fixing of the clasp can be effected by a self-latching locking mechanism, such as, for example, in the case of a latching or ratchet closure.

The tongue can thus preferably be either a clamping tongue or a latching tongue, and the clasp is preferably a clamping clasp or latching clasp or ratchet clasp.

The clasp preferably comprises a lever which can be tilted or rotated about an axis of rotation which is arranged preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guard, said lever being suitable for fastening the tongue to the clasp in a releasable manner.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the lever comprises a rolling region which is preferably configured in the form of an eccentric clamping portion and which is suitable or configured for fixedly clamping the tongue to the clasp when the lever is tilted.

A further preferred embodiment is characterized in that the closing apparatus is of self-latching configuration.

In a further preferred embodiment, the tongue comprises teeth, which are directed in a first direction, for the purposes of engaging in a corresponding portion on the clasp. Here, the corresponding portion of the clasp preferably comprises teeth which are directed in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The mutual engagement prevents the tongue from being spontaneously slid or pulled back out of the through-opening again. As an alternative, however, it is also possible for the latching tongue to comprise grooves and ridges or a ribbing. In such a case, the clasp preferably comprises a latching element which engages into the grooves of the tongue. The toothing or ribbing is preferably arranged on the upper side of the latching tongue. Here, the latching tongue is slid through the through-opening and automatically hooks in the clasp, such that a lever does not need to be actuated for clamping purposes. Instead of a toothing or ribbing, other variants of a positively locking connection between the clasp and the tongue are also possible, for example by way of spaced-apart cutouts in the tongue into which an engaging element of the clasp can engage or hook to define the wearing width.

Advantageously, the closing apparatus, in particular if the closing apparatus is a latching closure or ratchet closure, comprises a means for securing the closing apparatus against unintentional opening.

Said means for securing the closing apparatus against unintentional opening or unlocking can for example be a triggering element which has to be actively actuated in order to release the closure. This may for example involve two lateral tabs which are arranged on the clasp, which stand opposite one another and which, only during simultaneous actuation thereof, unlock the closing apparatus. The unlocking or the releasing of the closing apparatus or of the closure can for example be achieved by releasing the tongue, possibly only by actuation of the triggering element. However, the clamping or latching action can also be canceled in a simple manner by tilting the clamping or latching lever in a direction opposite to the clamping direction.

A particularly preferred guard comprises a closing apparatus which makes stepwise setting of the wearing width possible.

In this case, it is possible in particular for the wearing width or the circumference of the guard to be tightened in a stepwise manner, for example in the case of a latching or ratchet closure, in particular by introducing and pulling or sliding a latching tongue through the clasp along the ribbed or toothed portion thereof from groove to groove.

The desired wearing width is set or defined automatically in the case of the latching closure or ratchet closure, that is to say as a result of self-latching of the lever to the tongue, or of the tongue to the clasp. The sliding of the tongue, in particular on account of the orientation of a latching element in the case of such a closure, is generally possible only in one direction without actuation of a triggering element. The latching element prevents the tongue from being pulled or slid in the opposite direction. Only as a result of triggering of the triggering element can the closure be unlocked. According to a preferred embodiment, the closure is completely released in one operation by triggering the triggering element, in that the tongue is completely released from the clasp.

An alternative embodiment comprises a ratchet closure, in which an actuation of the ratchet in a first direction brings about stepwise tightening, and an actuation of the ratchet in a second direction opposite to the first direction brings about stepwise widening of the wearing width or of the circumference of the guard.

As an alternative, it is also possible to provide a closing apparatus which makes continuous setting of the wearing width possible. By way of example, in the case of a simple clamping closure the wearing width can be both tightened and widened continuously, depending on the position at which the clamping tongue is fixedly clamped along the longitudinal axis thereof by the clamping lever. Here, if the clamping lever has been released, the tongue can thus be pulled or slid in both directions through the clasp.

Here, the wearing width is the circumference measured on the limb of the user when the guard is fastened or the closing apparatus is closed, measured along the direction of extent of the tongue or of the adjusting band parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tongue, and in relation to the longitudinal axis of the guard at the axial height of the clasp.

Advantageously, the tongue is connected to the guard element in the region of one of the two side edges by means of a first fastening tab. In this case, the tongue can be fastened to the fastening tab, for example by sewing, adhesive bonding, pressing, riveting, welding, injection molding, etc. As an alternative, however, the tongue can also be fastened directly to the guard element. In a further embodiment, the fastening tab is configured in one piece with the tongue, or the fastening tab preferably transitions seamlessly into the tongue, wherein the fastening tab preferably has a greater width than the tongue. The fastening tab can be formed of the same material as the tongue, or of another material, and/or can have the same thickness as the tongue or a different thickness thereto. By way of example, the fastening tab can be formed of a material which is more stable in relation to tension or bending, and less flexible, than the tongue, or vice versa. Preferably, the tongue is formed of plastic, in particular of a flexible plastic, for example injection-molded plastic. The tongue preferably has a certain inherent rigidity so that it can be slid through the through-opening.

The first fastening tab for the fastening of the tongue is preferably fastened to the guard by way of at least a first fastening means. In this case, said first fastening means or fastening element can be used to fasten the fastening tab selectively at different alternative positions along the longitudinal axis of the guard, which makes a basic setting of the height of the respective closing apparatus on the guard element possible. Depending on the choice or type of fastening means, the fastening means can be fastened to the guard element in a releasable manner, or alternatively can already be fastened to the guard element in a fixed manner at a selected position during production. In addition or as an alternative, said first fastening means or fastening element can be used to fasten the fastening tab for the tongue, or, if the tongue is fastened directly to the guard element, the tongue itself, selectively at different alternative positions in the circumferential direction, in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the guard and substantially along the longitudinal axis of the tongue. This facilitates an additional possibility of the basic setting of the wearing width of the guard on the limb of the user, either already during production, or else subsequently in the case of releasable fastening means. For this purpose, the fastening tab for the tongue, or the tongue itself, and/or the guard element can comprise further cutouts, which define the additional adjustment positions in the longitudinal or circumferential direction and in which the respective fastening means can be fixed.

The clasp is preferably fastened to the guard element in the region of the first side edge. In this case, the clasp can be fastened to the guard element either directly or by means of a second fastening tab. It is particularly preferred if the clasp is fastened to the guard element additionally by way of a clasp band which is fixed to the second fastening tab or which is connected in one piece therewith. In this case, the clasp band can be fastened with a first end to the fastening tab and/or to the guard element, and with the other end to the clasp, for example in that the second end is laid in the form of a loop around a bracket or pin of the clasp and fixed thereto. However, the clasp, preferably in the form of a clamping, latching or ratchet clasp, can also be fastened directly on the fastening tab, for example by overmolding, screwing, or riveting.

Preferably, the second fastening tab for the fastening of the clasp is fastened to the guard element by way of a second fastening means. Preferably, the fastening tab can be fastened, by way of the second fastening means, to the guard element selectively at different alternative positions substantially along the longitudinal axis of the guard.

In addition or as an alternative, the fastening tab for the clasp can also be fastened, by way of the fastening means or fastening element, selectively at different alternative positions in the circumferential direction, in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the guard and substantially along the longitudinal axis of the tongue which is fastened at the opposite side edge, which facilitates an additional possibility of the basic setting of the wearing width of the guard on the limb, either during production, or else subsequently in the case of releasable fastening means. For this purpose, the fastening tab for the clasp, and/or the guard element can comprise further cutouts, which define the additional adjustment positions in the longitudinal or circumferential direction and in which the respective fastening means can be fixed.

Preferably, a closing apparatus comprises in each case a pair composed of a clasp which is fastened to a first side edge and a tongue which is fastened to the opposite second side edge. In this case, in relation to the longitudinal axis of the guard, the tongue is advantageously arranged substantially at the same height as the opposite associated clasp.

Preferably, the guard comprises at least two such closing apparatuses, which are arranged spaced apart above one another in relation to the longitudinal axis of the guard.

Preferably, a first upper closing apparatus is arranged in the upper half of the guard, and at least a second lower closing apparatus is preferably arranged in the lower half of the guard or substantially approximately in the middle region of the guard, as seen in relation to the longitudinal axis thereof.

So that the guard remains in position on the limb of the user, the guard element and/or the closing apparatus(es), or their fastening regions, are provided at least in certain regions with an anti-slip lining or an anti-slip coating, for example with a shrink tube. The fastening tabs, or the clamping or latching tongues fastened thereto, can preferably be provided, in particular on their inner side, with anti-slip and/or friction-enhancing means in order to ensure a better hold of the guard on the limb of the user, or in order to avoid slippage of the guard after the fixation thereof. For this purpose, use can for example be made of anti-slip materials, for example in the form of a covering, in the form of integrated fibers (for example woven-in rubber threads) or in the form of partially molded-on, injection-molded, or otherwise connected adhesion-enhancing frictional surfaces (for example silicone prints). A further preferred embodiment comprises an elastic portion which is fastened to the tongue, for example in the form of a textile band attachment. Said textile band attachment can absorb tensile forces, but also affords a certain elasticity. It is also possible for anti-slip threads to be worked into such a textile band, or the textile band can be provided with an anti-slip printing or coating. As an alternative thereto, the tongue itself, or the fastening tab, is produced from at least partially elastic material.

It can also be advantageous, for example in the case of a shin guard, for the guard to be formed of two rigid and hard elements, a shin element which forms the guard element and a sliding element. In this preferred embodiment, the two elements are then mounted so as to be displaceable relative to one another along the axis of the shin guard, and the mounting is also dynamic and spring-loaded. That is to say that, in the relaxed state, the shin guard is at the maximum length and can be shortened to some extent counter to the spring force.

On the convex front side, the guard element can also comprise at least one rigid or partially elastic rib, which preferably extends substantially over the entire axial length of the guard element and which is raised above the surface, or a ridge, preferably in the form of a rib of substantially pyramidal cross section with an axially extending tip. Said rib can be formed in one piece with the guard element and made of the same material or can be fastened (for example by adhesive bonding, screwing, riveting, or similar) as a separate element on the front side of the guard element. The rib itself can be manufactured from a friction-minimizing material or can be coated therewith (for example a rib made of aluminum, for example coated with PTFE). The ribs can furthermore preferably be fastened to the guard element in a releasable and exchangeable manner, for example with a releasable clamping mechanism, latching mechanism, snap-fit mechanism, or sliding latching mechanism or sliding snap-fit mechanism, with easily releasable screws, nuts, slides, or similar, without extensive use of tools or destruction of the component parts and by way of releasable mechanisms. The ribs can furthermore be manufactured in different forms and structural heights, in order to individually adapt the guard by exchanging them and to change the properties of said guard flexibly to match the requirements.

Further exemplary embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings, which serve merely for elucidation and are not to be interpreted as limiting. In the drawings:

FIG. 1a shows a schematic lateral illustration of a right limb guard, configured in the form of a shin guard, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in a view as seen from the inside, or from the left by the user, with two open clamping closures;

FIG. 1b shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 1, with two closed clamping closures;

FIG. 2a shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 1a , in a view as seen from the outside, or from the right by the user;

FIG. 2b shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 1b , in a view as seen from the outside, or from the right by the user;

FIG. 3a shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 1b , in a view as seen from behind by the user, or looking at the rear side of the shin guard;

FIG. 3b shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 1b , in a view as seen from behind by the user, or looking at the rear side of the shin guard;

FIG. 4a shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 1a , in a view from below;

FIG. 4b shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 1b , in a view from below;

FIG. 5a shows a schematic perspective illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 1a , in a view looking at the rear side of the shin guard as seen from the inside, or obliquely from the bottom left;

FIG. 5b shows a schematic perspective illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 1b , in a view looking at the rear side of the shin guard as seen from the inside, or obliquely from the bottom left;

FIG. 6a shows a schematic lateral illustration of a right limb guard, configured in the form of a shin guard, according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention, in a view as seen from the inside or from the left by the user, with two open latching closures;

FIG. 6b shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 6a , with two closed latching closures;

FIG. 7a shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 6a , in a view as seen from the outside, or from the right by the user;

FIG. 7b shows a schematic lateral illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 6b , in a view as seen from the outside, or from the right by the user;

FIG. 8a shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 6a , in a view as seen from behind by the user, or looking at the rear side of the shin guard;

FIG. 8b shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 6b , in a view as seen from behind by the user, or looking at the rear side of the shin guard;

FIG. 9a shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 6a , in a view from below;

FIG. 9b shows a schematic illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 6b , in a view from below;

FIG. 10a shows a schematic perspective illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 6a , in a view looking at the rear side of the shin guard as seen from the outside, or obliquely from the bottom right; and

FIG. 10b shows a schematic perspective illustration of the shin guard from FIG. 6b , in a view looking at the rear side of the shin guard as seen from the outside, or obliquely from the bottom right.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 illustrates a first exemplary embodiment of a guard 1 according to the invention, which is configured here in the form of a shin guard. A guard for the protection of another limb, for example a forearm, can be configured analogously, wherein the guard element 2 can be adapted in terms of its basic form depending on the limb to be protected. The guard 1 comprises a guard element 2, which comprises a convex front side 2 a and a concave rear side 2 b, as seen in relation to the direction of movement of the user. The concave rear side 2 b at least partially encloses an interior space, which is suitable for accommodating a limb of a user, for accommodating a leg in the present exemplary embodiment, in particular a shin. The guard element 2 is of ergonomic design and extends substantially along a longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1 from an upper edge 3, which is typically rounded, to the likewise typically rounded lower edge 4.

FIGS. 1-5 illustrate a shin guard 1 for the right leg of a user, and the corresponding shin guard 1 for the right leg of the user is designed to be mirror-symmetrical thereto. Each guard element 2 comprises a first side edge 5 and a second side edge 6. In this case, in the exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 1-5, the first side edge 5 is arranged on the inner side of the guard 1 and thus forms the inner edge, which faces toward the left leg of the user, and the second side edge 6 is arranged on the outer side of the guard 1 and thus forms the outer edge. The transition region between the respective side edge 5, 6 and the lower edge 4 is of rounded design, as is the transition region between the respective side edge 5, 6 and the upper edge 3. The transition region between the upper edge 3 and the first side edge 5 is of arcuate configuration here, as is the transition region between the upper edge 3 and the second side edge 6, wherein the last transition region in FIG. 1a approximately describes a right angle.

The guard 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 1-5 comprises two closing apparatuses 34 which are arranged in a pair, which are configured in the form of clamping closures and which are spaced apart from one another in relation to the longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1.

For this purpose, in the present exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 1-5, two clamping clasps 9 a, 9 b are fastened to the guard element 2 in the region of the first side edge 5 or the inner edge. The clasps 9 a, 9 b are fastened by way of a respective inner fastening tab 7 a, 7 b, wherein the first, upper inner fastening tab 7 a is assembled on the guard element 2 at a spacing from the second, lower inner fastening tab 7 b in relation to the longitudinal axis L1. Here, the inner fastening tab 7 a, 7 b is fastened to the guard element 2 in each case by way of two fastening means 21 a, 21 b. In embodiments with height-adjustable closing apparatuses 34, the fastening tabs can also be shifted to alternative adjustment positions 23 a, 23 b along the longitudinal axis L1. As is evident in FIGS. 5a, 5b , it is also possible for the inner fastening tab 7 a, 7 b to be fastened at different positions 30 a, 30 b in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L1 along the plane of extent of the inner fastening tab 7 a, 7 b. In the illustrated variant, the adjustment positions 30 a, 30 b are realized as partially or completely introduced, for example pre-drilled, cutouts in the guard element.

In the present exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 1-5, a respective clasp band 8 a, 8 b is fastened with a first end to the respective inner fastening tab 7 a, 7 b, wherein the respective clamping clasp 9 a, 9 b is fastened to the second end of said clasp band. In the present exemplary embodiment, the clasp band 8 a, 8 b is formed with its second end in the form of a loop, which, for the purposes of connection to the clamping clasp 9 a, 9 b, is laid around, and fastened to, a bracket or pin of the clamping clasp 9 a, 9 b, said bracket or pin being arranged substantially along the longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1. Both the first, upper clamping clasp 9 a and the second, lower clamping clasp 9 b comprise a respective clamping lever 12 a, 12 b, which comprises a rolling region 25 a, 25 b configured in the form of an eccentric region in the illustrated exemplary embodiment. Below the rolling region 25 a, 25 b, a through-opening is arranged in the clamping clasp 9 a, 9 b, which extends substantially between a base plate and the clamping lever 12 a, 12 b of the respective clamping clasp 9 a, 9 b.

In the region of the second side edge 6 or the outer edge of the guard element 2, two clamping tongues 11 a, 11 b are fastened to the guard element 2 likewise with the aid of a respective outer fastening tab 10 a, 10 b. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 1-5, a respective clamping tongue 11 a, 11 b is fastened with a first end to the respective outer fastening tab 10 a, 10 b, wherein the second, free end 13 a, 13 b of said tongue is introduced into the respectively opposite clamping clasp 9 a, 9 b and, for the purposes of fastening the guard 1 to the leg of the user, is fixed, for example clamped in, there in a releasable and length-adjustable manner by means of the clamping lever 12 a, 12 b. The outer fastening tab 10 a, 10 b is fastened to the guard element 2 in each case by way of two fastening means 22 a, 22 b. In embodiments with height-adjustable closing apparatuses 34, the outer fastening tabs 10 a, 10 b can also be shifted to alternative adjustment positions 24 a, 24 b along the longitudinal axis L1. As is evident in FIGS. 5a, 5b , it is also possible for the outer fastening tabs 10 a, 10 b to be fastened at different positions 32 a, 32 b in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L1 along the plane of extent of the outer fastening tab 10 a, 10 b, parallel to the longitudinal axis L11 thereof or substantially in the circumferential direction U. Here, the adjustment positions 32 a, 32 b are also realized as partially or completely pre-drilled cutouts in the respective outer fastening tab 10 a, 10 b for the respective clamping tongue 11 a, 11 b.

To fasten the guard 1 to the leg of the user, the guard element 2 is placed with its concave rear side 2 b on the shin of the user. The first, upper clamping tongue 11 a is then laid, from the outside, around the calf of the user's leg. Subsequently, the first, upper clamping tongue 11 a is guided through with its free, second end 11 a into a through-opening of the first, upper clamping clasp 9 a. As a result of insertion of the clamping tongue 11 a, the wearing width of the guard on the leg is continuously reduced and then set at the desired wearing width in that the first, upper clamping lever 12 a fixedly clamps the first, upper clamping tongue 11 a by being folded down about an axis of rotation D12 which is oriented substantially along the longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1. In the present exemplary embodiment, the clamping lever 12 a is folded down along the rolling region 25 a of the clamping lever 12 a. To release the fastening of the guard 1 to the leg, the clamping lever 12 a is folded up again and thus the first, upper clamping tongue 11 a is freed from the first clamping clasp 9 a again.

The second or lower closing apparatus 34 functions analogously to the first or upper closing apparatus 34 just described.

If the user's leg is of above-average width, as mentioned above, it is thus possible for the inner fastening tab 7 a, 7 b for the clamping clasp 9 a, 9 b or the outer fastening tab 10 a, 10 b for the clamping tongue 11 a, 11 b to be fastened to the guard element 2 in an adjustment position 30 a, 30 b, or 32 a, 32 b, respectively, which is further along the circumferential direction U, in order to enlarge the maximum fit or the circumference of the guard 1.

In the second illustrated exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 6-10, a shin guard 1 for the right leg of a user is illustrated, and the corresponding shin guard 1 for the left leg of the user is designed to be mirror-symmetrical thereto.

As in the first exemplary embodiment described at the start, said shin guard 1 comprises a guard element 2, which comprises a convex front side 2 a and a concave rear side 2 b, as seen in relation to the direction of movement of the user. The concave rear side 2 b likewise at least partially encloses an interior space which is suitable for accommodating a leg of a user, in particular a shin of the user. The guard element 2 is of ergonomic design and extends substantially along a longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1 from an upper edge 3, which is typically rounded, to the likewise typically rounded lower edge 4.

Here, too, each guard element 2 comprises a first side edge 5 and a second side edge 6. In this case, the first side edge 5 is arranged in each case on the inner side of the guard 1, said inner side facing toward the left leg of the user, and thus forms the inner edge. The transition between the respective side edge 5, 6 and the lower edge 4 is also of rounded design here, as is the respective transition between the respective side edge 5, 6 and the lower edge 3. The shin guard 1 according to the present second exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 6-10 comprises two closing apparatuses 34 which are configured in the form of latching or ratchet closures and which are spaced apart from one another in relation to the longitudinal axis L1 of the guard 1. At the second side edge 6 or at the outer edge, an upper, outer fastening tab 14 a and a lower, outer fastening tab 14 b are fastened, in each case by way of at least one fastening means 26 a, 26 b. Here, too, depending on the type of the selected fastening means 26 a, 26 b, the outer fastening tabs 14 a, 14 b can be fastened to the guard element 2 selectively at different adjustment positions 28 a, 28 b along the longitudinal axis L1. As is evident in FIG. 8a , it is also possible for the outer fastening tab 14 a, 14 b to be fastened at different positions 33 a, 33 b in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L1 along the plane of extent of the outer fastening tab 14 a, 14 b or along the circumferential direction U.

Unlike in the first exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 1-5 with the clamping closures, here, a respective latching clasp 15 a, 15 b is fastened to the respective external or outer fastening tab 14 a, 14 b. The first, upper latching clasp 15 a and the second, lower latching clasp 15 b each comprise a latching lever 19 a, 19 b, and also each comprise a first unlocking button 18 a ₁, 18 b ₁ and a second unlocking button 18 a ₂ and 18 b ₂, respectively. Unlike in the first exemplary embodiment, in the second exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 6-10, the latching clasp 15 a, 15 b is fastened without a clasp band to the respective fastening tab 14 a, 14 b or is connected thereto in one piece.

In the second exemplary embodiment, in the region of the first side edge 5 or the inner edge, a first, upper inner fastening tab 16 a and a second, lower inner fastening tab 16 b which is axially spaced apart therefrom along the longitudinal axis L1 are fastened to the guard element 2. Depending on the choice of fastening means, the inner fastening tabs 16 a, 16 b can also be fastened, possibly releasably, at a plurality of different alternative adjustment positions 29 a, 29 b along the longitudinal axis L1. As is evident in FIGS. 6a, 6b , it is also possible for the fastening tab 16 a, 16 b to be fastened at different positions 31 a, 31 b in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L1 along the plane of extent of the fastening tab 16 a, 16 b or along the circumferential direction U.

In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the respective inner fastening tab 16 a, 16 b is formed in one piece with the respective latching tongue 17 a, 17 b, that is to say the first, upper fastening tab 16 a transitions seamlessly into a ribbed first, upper latching tongue 17 a, and the second, lower fastening tab 16 b transitions seamlessly into a ribbed second, upper latching tongue 17 b. In this case, in the depicted second exemplary embodiment, the non-ribbed portion which forms the fastening tab 16 a, 16 b has a greater width than the portion which forms the latching tongue 17 a, 17 b. The upper side of the latching tongue 17 a, 17 b is formed with a regular sequence of grooves and ridges, or the upper side of said tongue is ribbed in the illustrated exemplary embodiment from FIGS. 6-10.

The wearing width is set by introducing the latching tongue 17 a, 17 b into the through-opening of the latching clasp 15 a, 15 b. A tilting element/latching element (not illustrated) engages on the underside or below the latching lever 15 a, 15 b into the grooves which are arranged at regular spacings on the ribbed latching tongue 17 a, 17 b, in order to permit a sliding movement of the latching tongue 17 a, 17 b in only one direction. To release the closing apparatus 34, in the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the two unlocking buttons 18 a ₁ and 18 a ₂, and 18 b ₁ and 18 b ₂, respectively, which lie opposite one another on the latching clasp 15 a, 15 b are pressed simultaneously, which causes the engagement of the tilting element/latching element in the groove to be released and the latching tongue 17 a, 17 b can be removed from the through-opening of the latching clasp 15 a, 15 b. The closing apparatus 34 is then ready for resetting.

If the calf of the user is of above-average width, as mentioned above, it is thus possible for the outer fastening tab 14 a, 14 b for the latching clasp 15 a, 15 b or the inner fastening tab 16 a, 16 b for the latching tongue 17 a, 17 b to be fastened to the guard element 2 in an adjustment position 33 a, 33 b, or 31 a, 31 b, respectively, which is further along the circumferential direction U, in order to enlarge the maximum fit or the circumference of the guard 1. Conversely, in the case of a small calf, for example in the case of guards for children, it is possible for a tighter adjustment position to be selected. Said basic setting of the wearing width can be effected either during production, or else first by the user in the case of releasable fastening means for the fastening tabs.

LIST OF REFERENCE DESIGNATIONS

 1 Guard  2 Guard element  2a Front side of 2  2b Rear side of 2  3 Upper edge of 2  4 Lower edge of 2  5 First side edge of 2  6 Second side edge of 2  7a Fastening tab for 8a/9a  7b Fastening tab for 8b/9b  8a First, upper clasp band  8b Second, lower clasp band  9a First, upper clamping clasp  9b Second, lower clamping clasp 10a Fastening tab for 11a 10b Fastening tab for 11b 11a First, upper clamping tongue 11b Second, lower clamping tongue 12a Clamping lever of 9a 12b Clamping lever of 9b 13a Free end of 11a 13b Free end of 11b 14a Fastening tab for 15a 14b Fastening tab for 15b 15a First, upper latching clasp 15b Second, lower latching clasp 16a Fastening tab for 17a 16b Fastening tab for 17b 17a First, upper latching tongue 17b Second, lower latching tongue 18a₁ First unlocking button of 15a 18a₂ Second unlocking button of 15a 18b₁ First unlocking button of 15b 18b₂ Second unlocking button of 15b 19a Latching lever of 15a 19b Latching lever of 15b 20a Free end of 17a 20b Free end of 17b 21a Fastening means of 7a 21b Fastening means of 7b 22a Fastening means of 10a 22b Fastening means of 10b 23a Adjustment positions for 21a on 2 23b Adjustment positions for 21b on 2 24a Adjustment positions for 22a on 2 24b Adjustment positions for 22b on 2 25a Rolling region of 12a 25b Rolling region of 12b 26a Fastening means of 14a 26b Fastening means of 14b 27a Fastening means of 16a 27b Fastening means of 16b 28a Adjustment positions for 26a on 2 28b Adjustment positions for 26b on 2 29a Adjustment positions for 27a on 2 29b Adjustment positions for 27b on 2 30a Adjustment positions for 21a on 7a 30b Adjustment positions for 21b on 7b 31a Adjustment positions for 27a on 16a 31b Adjustment positions for 27b on 16b 32a Adjustment positions for 22a on 10a 32b Adjustment positions for 22b on 10b 33a Adjustment positions for 26a on 14a 33b Adjustment positions for 26b on 14b 34 Closing apparatus D12 Axis of rotation of 12 L1 Longitudinal axis of 1 L11 Longitudinal axis of 11a, 11b L17 Longitudinal axis of 17a, 17b U Circumferential direction of 1 

1. A guard for protecting a limb of a user, having a guard element which is formed on the basis of a hard plastic or metal and which comprises a concave rear side, which is formed in a curved manner transversely with respect to a longitudinal axis of the guard and partially encloses an interior space for accommodating a limb of the user, and a convex front side, wherein the guard comprises at least one closing apparatus for fastening the guard element to the limb of the user in a releasable and size-adjustable manner, wherein the closing apparatus is configured for the selective continuous or stepwise setting of a wearing width of the guard element on the limb of the user, and wherein the closing apparatus comprises a latching closure, a ratchet closure or a clamping closure.
 2. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one tongue is fastened with a first end in the region of a first side edge of the guard element, wherein at least one clasp is fastened in the region of a second side edge of the guard element which lies opposite the first side edge, or vice versa, and wherein the tongue can be fastened to the clasp in a releasable manner at different positions along a longitudinal axis of the tongue.
 3. The guard as claimed in claim 2, wherein the clasp comprises a through-opening for accommodating the tongue.
 4. The guard as claimed in claim 3, wherein the clasp comprises a lever which can be tilted about an axis of rotation which is arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the guard, said lever being suitable for fastening the tongue to the clasp in a releasable manner.
 5. The guard as claimed in claim 4, wherein the lever comprises a rolling region which is suitable for fixedly clamping the tongue to the clasp when the lever is tilted.
 6. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein the closing apparatus is of self-latching configuration.
 7. The guard as claimed in claim 2, wherein the tongue comprises teeth, which are directed in a first direction, for the purposes of engaging in a corresponding portion on the clasp, wherein the corresponding portion comprises teeth which are directed in a second direction opposite to the first direction.
 8. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein the closing apparatus comprises a means for securing the closing apparatus against unintentional opening.
 9. The guard as claimed in claim 8, wherein the means for securing the closing apparatus against unintentional opening comprises two lateral tabs which are arranged on the clasp, which stand opposite one another and which, during simultaneous actuation thereof, unlock the closing apparatus, in particular by releasing the tongue.
 10. The guard as claimed in claim 2, wherein the tongue is fastened to the guard element by way of a first fastening tab, and/or wherein the clasp is fastened to the guard element by way of a second fastening tab.
 11. The guard as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first fastening tab for the fastening of the tongue is fastened to the guard by way of at least a first fastening means and/or wherein the second fastening tab for the fastening of the clasp is fastened to the guard element by way of at least a second fastening means.
 12. The guard as claimed in claim, wherein the closing apparatus makes stepwise setting of the wearing width possible.
 13. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein the closing apparatus makes continuous setting of the wearing width possible.
 14. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein the guard comprises at least two closing apparatuses which are spaced apart from one another in relation to the longitudinal axis of the guard.
 15. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the guard element and the closing apparatus is provided at least in certain regions with an anti-slip material, and wherein the anti-slip material is an anti-slip lining, an anti-slip coating or anti-slip fibers or threads which are embedded into a woven fabric of the guard element or of the closing apparatus.
 16. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein it is a shin guard or forearm guard.
 17. The guard as claimed in claim 3, wherein the clasp comprises a lever which can be tilted about an axis of rotation, said lever being suitable for fastening the tongue to the clasp a releasable manner.
 18. The guard as claimed in claim 4, wherein the lever comprises a rolling region, in the form of an eccentric clamping portion, which is suitable for fixedly clamping the tongue to the clasp when the lever is tilted.
 19. The guard as claimed in claim 2, wherein the tongue comprises teeth, which are directed in a first direction, for the purposes of engaging in a corresponding portion on the clasp, wherein the corresponding portion comprises teeth which are directed in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and wherein the tongue is a latching tongue, which comprises a toothing at its upper side.
 20. The guard as claimed in claim 8, wherein the means for securing the closing apparatus against unintentional opening comprises two lateral tabs which are arranged on the clasp, which stand opposite one another and which, during simultaneous actuation thereof, unlock the closing apparatus, by releasing the tongue.
 21. The guard as claimed in claim 2, wherein the tongue is fastened to the guard element by way of a first fastening tab, and/or wherein the clasp is fastened to the guard element by way of a second fastening tab and additionally by way of a clasp band which is fixed to the second fastening tab.
 22. The guard as claimed in claim 10, wherein the first fastening tab for the fastening of the tongue is fastened to the guard by way of at least a first fastening means, and said first fastening tab can be fastened, by way of the first fastening means, selectively at different alternative positions, along the longitudinal axis of the guard, and/or wherein the second fastening tab for the fastening of the clasp is fastened to the guard element by way of at least a second fastening means, and said second fastening tab can be fastened, by way of the second fastening means, to the guard element selectively at different alternative positions, along the longitudinal axis of the guard.
 23. The guard as claimed in claim 1, wherein the closing apparatus makes stepwise setting of the wearing width possible, in the form of stepwise tightening. 